Time per shot, averaged over buffer length or 20 shots, whichever came first

"Multi-16" mode
(16 small images in one frame)

0.5 seconds
(2.0 frames/sec)
16 shots per burst
<1 sec to clear

"Multi-16" mode divides a full-size image into 16 small sub-images, and captures the small images at a rate of 2 frames/sec. Only 16 frames/burst in this mode, but the camera is ready to shoot another burst almost immediately.

The Nikon Coolpix S5's performance ranges from quite fast to just average, depending on what you're trying to do. It starts up fairly quickly, and has a fast shutter response at both wide angle and telephoto lens positions. If you "prefocus" the camera by half-pressing and holding down the shutter button before the final exposure, it's also very fast, with a shutter delay of only 0.10 second. Shot to shot cycle times are pretty good at about 1.67 seconds/shot, for up to 4 shots in succession, then dropping to about 2.18 seconds/shot after the buffer fills. Continuous-mode speed is good if not impressive, at a bit over two frames/second, for up to four shots in succession. The flash takes about five seconds to recharge after a full-power shot, about average for this class of camera. Connected to a computer, download speeds are a bit sluggish by current standards, so you may want to consider a separate card reader for downloading large batches of images. Overall, the S5 is responsive enough for typical consumer needs. Though the Continuous shooting mode is a little slower than average, it should be sufficient for family snapshots and the average little league game.

Battery and Storage Capacity

BatteryPretty good battery life.

Test Condition

Number of Shots

LiIon Rechargeable
Battery

210

The Nikon Coolpix S5 uses a custom rechargeable LiIon battery for power. The table above shows the number of shots the camera is capable of, based on CIPA battery-life standard test conditions. The rated 210 shots per charge isn't bad, but remember that this number doesn't include time spent viewing images on the LCD screen. As usual, we recommend purchasing a second battery along with the camera if you plan any extended outings.

StorageNo card is included with the Nikon Coolpix S5, although it accepts
SD/MMC cards; 21MB RAM is built into the camera.